What is plantar fasciitis?
Plantar fasciitis is a common condition that causes pain in the heel and arch of the foot. It is caused by inflammation of the plantar fascia, a thick band of tissue that runs along the bottom of the foot from the heel to the toes. Plantar fasciitis is the most common cause of heel pain.
The exact cause of plantar fasciitis is unknown, but it is thought to be caused by a combination of factors, including:
- Overuse of the plantar fascia, such as from running or other high-impact activities.
- Sudden changes in activity level, such as starting a new exercise program.
- Foot deformities, such as flat feet or high arches.
- Obesity
- Age
The symptoms of plantar fasciitis usually develop gradually over time. The most common symptom is pain in the heel or arch of the foot that is worse when you first get out of bed in the morning. The pain may also worsen after sitting for a long time or standing for a long time.
Plantar fasciitis can be a literal pain in the foot, challenging even the simplest of daily activities. With over 2 million people affected by this condition in the United States alone, finding ways to manage the pain and discomfort is essential. One of the most effective ways to do this is by investing in proper footwear designed for plantar fasciitis relief. In this blog post, I will explore the top 21 walking shoes that can help alleviate the symptoms of plantar fasciitis and discuss some important considerations when choosing the best pair for your needs.
Understanding Plantar Fasciitis and Footwear
Before diving into the shoe recommendations, it's important to understand the relationship between plantar fasciitis and the type of footwear best suited to manage it.
What type of shoe is best for plantar fasciitis?
The ideal shoe for plantar fasciitis should have the following features:
1. Arch support: Supporting the arch of the foot is crucial for reducing strain on the plantar fascia ligament.
2. Cushioning: A shoe with adequate cushioning can help absorb shock and reduce pressure on the foot during walking.
3. Stability: A stable shoe prevents excessive foot movement and evenly distributes weight, reducing the risk of pain.
4. Proper fit: Ill-fitting shoes can exacerbate plantar fasciitis symptoms, so finding a pair that fits well is essential.
Are walking shoes or running shoes better for plantar fasciitis?
Both walking and running shoes can be suitable for individuals with plantar fasciitis as long as they provide the necessary support, cushioning, and stability. However, walking shoes are generally more appropriate for daily and casual walking, while running shoes are designed for higher-impact activities. This post focuses on walking shoes specifically designed for plantar fasciitis relief.
21 Best Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis Relief
We've researched and compiled a list of the top walking shoes that cater to the needs of individuals with plantar fasciitis. These recommendations are divided into categories for women, men, and unisex options.
Best Women's Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. New Balance Women's 840 V3 Walking Shoe
2. Brooks Addiction Walker
3. ASICS Women's Gel-Contend SL Walking Shoes
4. Vionic Walker
5. Orthofeet Women's Orthopedic No-Tie Sneaker with Arch Support Francis
6. Skechers Performance Women's Go Walk 4 Pursuit Walking Shoe Taupe
7. Gravity Defyer Women's Pain Relief
Best Men's Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. New Balance Men's 847 V4 Walking Shoe
2. FitVille Plantar Fasciitis Shoes for Men
3.Orthofeet Innovative Plantar Fasciitis Shoes for Men
4. OrthoComfoot Men's Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
5. Ortho+rest Men's Orthopedic Shoes
6.URRAX Men's Orthopedic Shoes
7. GECKO MAN Slip On Shoes for Men
Best Unisex Walking Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
1. New Balance MW813
2. ASICS GEL-Contend Walking Shoe
3. Orthofeet Comfort Plantar Fasciitis Shoes
4. Propet Stability Walker
5. Vionic with Orthaheel Technology Walker
6. Brooks Dyad Walker
7. Skechers Go Walk Evolution Ultra
Considerations for Choosing the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
When shopping for the perfect pair of plantar fasciitis walking shoes, it's important to consider factors such as support, cushioning, fit, and personal preferences.
Factors to Consider When Shopping
1. Arch support: Ensure the shoe adequately supports your specific arch type (low, neutral, or high).
2. Cushioning: Look for shoes with sufficient cushioning to absorb shock and minimize foot discomfort.
3. Fit: Properly fitting shoes are essential for comfort and preventing further irritation of the plantar fascia.
4. Personal preferences: Choose a shoe that suits your style and meets your needs, such as wide or narrow widths, lightweight construction, or slip-resistant soles.
Best Women's Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
In addition to the top 7 recommendations above, consider these additional options specifically designed for women:
1. Ryka Devotion Plus 2
2. Merrell Women's Encore Q2 Breeze
3. Clarks Women's Sillian Paz Slip-On
Addressing Plantar Fasciitis Beyond Footwear
While proper footwear can significantly impact managing plantar fasciitis pain, it's essential to consider additional treatments and lifestyle changes to promote healing and long-term relief.
How do you cure plantar fasciitis fast?
Some treatments to consider for faster relief include:
1. Stretching exercises: Regularly stretching the plantar fascia, calf muscles, and Achilles tendon can help alleviate pain.
2. Ice therapy: Applying ice to the affected area can reduce inflammation and provide relief.
3. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs): Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen can help manage pain and inflammation.
4. Physical therapy: A physical therapist can provide targeted exercises and treatments to address plantar fasciitis.
What helps plantar fasciitis pain when walking?
Try these tips and strategies for managing pain while walking:
1. Wear supportive shoes: Choose footwear that provides proper arch support, cushioning, and stability.
2. Use orthotic inserts: Custom or over-the-counter insoles can provide additional support and cushioning.
3. Take breaks: Rest your feet periodically to minimize strain on the plantar fascia.
4. Maintain a healthy weight: Excess weight can increase pressure on the feet, exacerbating plantar fasciitis symptoms.
Conclusion: Walk Your Way to Relief with the Best Shoes for Plantar Fasciitis
By understanding the features to look for in a walking shoe and considering the top recommendations provided in this post, you can make an informed decision to find the perfect pair for your plantar fasciitis needs. Remember that the key is finding a shoe that offers the proper support, cushioning, and stability to alleviate pain and promote healing.
I encourage you to consider these recommendations and share your experiences or ask any questions you may have in the comments below.